WORCESTER – The city’s biggest Irish celebration is set to take over Park Avenue this Sunday, March 17, as the Worcester County St. Patrick’s Parade steps off at noon from the intersection of Park Ave. and Mill Street.
With more than 65 marching groups and floats, live entertainment, and a variety of local businesses joining in, this year’s parade promises to be one of the most exciting yet.
“We’re thrilled to welcome back Holy Cross this year, as they’re usually on spring break during the parade,” Erin Zamarro, parade chairperson, told the Worcester Guardian. “We also have a number of new additions, including Cait the Clown and a special float celebrating the Robert Goddard Centennial.”
The parade, which runs about 1.5 to 2 hours, marches down Park Ave., with the busiest viewing areas between Chandler and Highland streets, near the reviewing stand by Elm Park. Those looking for a less crowded spot may prefer the stretch between Lovell and Maywood Streets.
A shuttle will run between Doherty High School and Mill Swan School from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. to help parade participants get back to the starting area. Park Avenue will be fully closed to traffic from 11 a.m. until about 2:30 p.m., with some sections near Elm Park shutting down as early as 6 a.m.
What to expect: parade highlights
- Grand Marshal: The unapologetically enthusiastic Katie McEvoy leads the procession with two floats filled with family, friends, and entertainment.
- Live music & bands: 14 bands, including the Worcester Police Pipes & Drums, Burncoat High School Spirit Team, and the nationally recognized McGann Marching Band.
- Marching groups & floats: More than 65 participants, including:
- Worcester Fire Brigade Pipes & Drums
- Douglas, South High, and Clinton Public Schools Marching Bands
- Worcester Kiltie Pipe Band
- Shriners and their signature parade vehicles
- Floats from Worcester Bravehearts, Worcester Railers, and Polar Beverages
- Irish dance schools (including the McInerney School of Dance), community organizations, and veterans’ groups
- Celtic 5K Road Race: Begins at 11 a.m. ahead of the parade.
- Food trucks: A collection of yummy foods served out of trucks available in the parking lot of Austin Liquors
Zamarro emphasized the economic and community impact of the parade, particularly for local businesses along the route.
“We’ve heard time and again that parade day is one of the busiest days of the year for bars and restaurants on Park Ave,” she said. “For some, the revenue from this one day helps sustain them for months.”
The Worcester County St. Patrick’s Parade has been a tradition since 1981, growing significantly over its 43-year history. “We have volunteers who have been with the committee since the very beginning,” Zamarro noted. “It’s amazing to see how the parade has evolved and how much it means to the community.”
For those planning to attend, organizers recommend arriving early, dressing in layers, and supporting the businesses along the parade route.
Proceeds from the Bay State Brewing beer tent at Elm Park will go to Sherry’s House/Why Me, a nonprofit supporting children with cancer.
“Some 125,000-150,000 people come each year!” McEvoy told the Guardian. “It’s amazing. It is the essence of community and everyone is Irish on parade day.”
Get information, including the parade route, here.
Beyond the parade: keep the celebration cranking
The St. Patrick’s Day festivities don’t stop when the parade ends, and there are a lot of festivities happening in conjunction with the parade.
Restaurants, pubs, and venues along Park Ave. and beyond are keeping the party alive with traditional Irish fare, live music, and plenty of good times. Whether you’re craving corned beef and cabbage, looking to dance to a live band, or just want to soak in the Irish spirit, there’s something for everyone.
Here are some options:
- The MCL Club (2 p.m.) – The Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade After Party kicks off right after the parade with NASTY HABITS, the area’s best Rolling Stones tribute band. Don’t miss out on the fun!
- The Bubbleheads at White Eagle (3 p.m.) – The Bubbleheads return for their annual Parade Day show! Enjoy corned beef and cabbage ($15.37), with the kitchen opening at noon.
- Midnight Riders at Loft 266 (1-4 p.m.) – Enjoy live music from the Midnight Riders, a $10 cover charge, and festive entertainment, including Claire McInerny Irish Step Dancers, a 50/50 raffle, Irish drink specials, and delicious corned beef or Reuben sandwiches.
- O’Connor’s Restaurant (11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.) – Traditional live Irish music and classic Irish fare make this a post-parade go-to.
- Fiddler’s Green Pub (1-5 p.m.) – Celebrate with live Irish music from the Belfast Cowboys, Irish Step Dancers, and Pipe and Drum performances. Enjoy great food, drinks, and a lively atmosphere.
Did we miss something? Hosting an event, live music, or performance for St. Patrick’s Day Parade Day? Let us know at carsenault@theworcesterguardian.org.
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